2025 Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hōʻolauleʻa announces Grand Parade Marshal Clifford Naeʻole

Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hōʻolauleʻa Committee announced Clifford Naeʻole as the Grand Parade Marshal for the 2025 celebration, set to take place on Saturday, June 21, along Kaʻahumanu Avenue in Kahului beginning at 9:45 a.m.

The theme for this year’s parade is “E Ho‘omau,” a call to persevere and perpetuate the knowledge, values, and cultural identity of the people of Hawaiʻi. In this spirit, organizers will be honoring the legacy of Mary Kawena Pukui, a pillar of Hawaiian scholarship, language, and ʻike kupuna.

“Uncle Cliffords life’s work has exemplified the very essence of this theme. His tireless efforts to uplift Hawaiian culture, language, and protocol—especially through your role as a cultural advisor and advocate—resonate deeply with the manaʻo of Kawena Pukui,” said coordinator Daryl Fujiwara. “His presence as Grand Marshal is a powerful and inspiring tribute to her legacy and a meaningful reminder to our lāhui of the importance of carrying these traditions forward.”

The festivities begin with the traditional Pāʻū Parade down Kaʻahumanu Avenue, featuring the pageantry of pāʻū riders representing each island, hālau hula, marching bands, and community groups celebrating Hawaiian culture and aliʻi legacy.

Commentary stations will be posted along Kaʻahumanu Avenue at Mahalani Street; Papa Avenue; Wakea Avenue; and two at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center.

The celebration continues with a lively Hōʻolauleʻa at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center, filled with live music, hula, local artisans, educational exhibits, and cultural demonstrations — a vibrant day for the whole ʻohana. The Hōʻolauleʻa runs until 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public.